Wireless charging for an input device

ABSTRACT

An apparatus including a removable modular insert disposed within a housing of a host device, the housing including one or more magnets, and one or more conductive contacts disposed on the removable modular insert to magnetically couple to the one or more magnets and secure the modular insert within the housing of the host device, and electrically couple the modular insert to the host device. A conductive coil can be coupled to the modular insert to electromagnetically receive power from a base device having a surface, where the host device moves and operates along the surface of the base device. The apparatus can include a communication device and a processor to control the communication device for communication between the modular insert and the host device, and control operation of the conductive coil. The communication device further controls the electromagnetic coupling between the modular insert and the base device.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional Ser. No.16/888,265, filed, May 29, 2020, and titled, WIRELESS CHARGING FOR ANINPUT DEVICE, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisionalapplication Ser. No. 16/823,315, filed, Mar. 18, 22020, and titled,WIRELESS CHARGING FOR AN INPUT DEVICE, which is a continuation of U.S.Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/397,570, filed, Jan. 3, 2017,now U.S. Pat. No. 10,622,824, issued Apr. 14, 2020 and titled, WIRELESSCHARGING FOR AN INPUT DEVICE, which claims the benefit and priority ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/304,053, filed on Mar. 4, 2016, andtitled “WIRELESS CHARGING FOR AN INPUT DEVICE,” which are herebyincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

The following regular U.S. patent application was filed concurrentlywith application Ser. No. 15/397,570, filed, Jan. 3, 2017 and titled,WIRELESS CHARGING FOR AN INPUT DEVICE, and the entire disclosure of theother application is incorporated by reference into this application forall purposes:

-   -   Application Ser. No. 15/397,572, filed Jan. 3, 2017, titled        “WIRELESS CHARGING FOR AN INPUT DEVICE.”

BACKGROUND

Wireless peripheral devices (e.g., computer mice, keyboards, speakers,ear buds, smart wearables, etc.) are widely used and provide portabilityand convenience, but often suffer from poor battery life. Althoughbattery technology continues to improve, most peripheral devices requirea charging cable for extended usage, which can be cumbersome, limiting,and defeats the purpose of wireless technology in general. Somecontemporary charging schemes solve this problem by utilize chargingbase to wirelessly charge a peripheral device over time. These types ofcharging stations can be helpful, but typically require the peripheraldevice to remain immobile. For instance, wireless ear buds need toremain on a mantle, or smart phones may need to remain on a chargingblock. However, these charging applications are ineffective for devicesthat require constant use and/or movement, such as computer mice. Bettermethods of wireless charging are needed.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a removable modular insertdisposed within a housing of a host device. The housing can include oneor more magnets. The apparatus can include one or more conductivecontacts disposed on the removable modular insert to magnetically coupleto the one or more magnets and secure the modular insert within thehousing of the host device. The magnets can further electrically couplethe modular insert to the host device. A conductive coil can be coupledto the modular insert to electromagnetically receive power from a basedevice having a surface, where the host moves and operates along thesurface of the base device. The base device can be a powered computermouse pad. A storage device (e.g., battery) can be used to store thereceived electromagnetic power from the base device.

Certain embodiments further include a communication device and aprocessor to control the communication device for communication betweenthe modular insert and the computer mouse, and control operation of theconductive coil. The processor can control operation of thecommunication device and the electromagnetic coupling between themodular insert and the base device. The processor can further controlwireless communication between the computer mouse and a computing devicethat the computer mouse is communicatively paired to. The wirelesscommunication between the base device and modular insert can be based onany suitable communication protocol including, but not limited to,Bluetooth®, Bluetooth LE®, ZigBee®, RF, infra-red, or the like. Themodular insert can be any suitable shape. In certain implementations,the modular insert is coin shaped, and when disposed within the housing,is secured in a cavity within the computer mouse (e.g., within ahousing).

In further embodiments, a computer mouse includes a housing, a processordisposed in the housing, and a cavity formed in the housing andincluding one or more magnets, the cavity to receive a removable modularinsert disposed within the cavity and controlled by the processor. Themodular insert can include one or more conductive contacts tomagnetically couple to the one or more magnets and secure the modularinsert to the housing of the computer mouse, and the modular insert canelectrically couple the modular insert to the computer mouse. Themodular insert can include a conductive coil to electromagneticallyreceive power from a base device having a surface, where the computermouse moves and operates along the surface of the base device. Themodular insert can include a communication device controlled by theprocessor to communicate with and control operation of the conductivecoil. The base device can be a computer mouse pad. The computer mousecan further include a battery, controlled by the processor, to store theelectromagnetically received power from the base device.

In some embodiments, a method includes receiving, within a cavity of acomputer mouse, a removable modular insert that includes a conductivecoil, establishing a communicative coupling with the modular insert,controlling operation of the modular insert via the communicativecoupling, and establishing and controlling electromagnetic powercoupling between the conductive coil and a base device when the computermouse is placed in close proximity to the base device. The cavity caninclude one or more magnets disposed therein. The receiving of theremovable modular insert in the cavity can further include magneticallysecuring the modular insert in the cavity via the one or more magnets.Communicative coupling with the modular insert can include electricalcoupling via the one or more magnets. The base device can be a computermouse pad and the computer mouse can move and operate along a surface ofthe base device. In some implementations, the computer mouse can have abattery and the method can further include storing powerelectromagnetically received from the base device in the battery. Insome cases, the method may include establishing and controllingcommunication between the computer mouse and the base device to controlthe electromagnetic power coupling there between.

In certain embodiments, a base device includes a housing having asurface to support a host device, a processor disposed in the housing,and a wireless receiver controlled by the processor and disposed in thehousing to control communication between the base device and the hostdevice. The housing of the base device can be a powered mat and the hostdevice can be a computer mouse. The base device may be in electroniccommunication with a computing device, and the communication between thebase device and the host device can include control signals thatoriginate from the computing device.

In further embodiments, a host device includes a housing, a processordisposed in the housing, and a cavity formed in the housing to receive aremovable modular insert disposed within the cavity and controlled bythe processor, where the modular insert, when inserted into the cavity,can be electrically coupled to the host device, and where the modularinsert includes a power source and a wireless transceiver to wirelesslycouple the host device to a corresponding computing device.

In certain embodiments, a method includes receiving a removable moduleon a docking port of a portable audio speaker, where the module includesa wireless communication device, a conductive coil, and an energystorage device, where the module, when received by the docking port, maybe electrically coupled to the portable audio speaker, and where thewireless communication device, the conductive coil, and the energystorage device may be controlled by a processor disposed in the portableaudio speaker via the electrical coupling between the module and theportable audio speaker. The method can further include establishingelectronic communication between the wireless communication device and acharging device, generating, by the processor, a control command tocause the base device to electromagnetically radiate power when themodule is in a proximity to the base device, receiving powerelectromagnetically received by the conductive coil, and storing theelectromagnetically received power in the energy storage device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanyingfigures.

FIG. 1 shows a simplified diagram of a system utilizing a wirelesscharging system for charging an input device, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 2 shows an input device having a cavity disposed therein to receivea removable modular insert, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a removable modular insert for an input device, accordingto certain embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a removable modular insert coupled to an input device,according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9A shows a simplified diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aspeaker, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9B shows a simplified diagram of a system for wirelessly charging asmart phone, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9C shows a simplified diagram of a system for wirelessly chargingwireless earbuds and a smart watch, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a method of configuring an input devicefor wireless charging, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 11A shows aspects of charging an input device on a base device whenthe input device is out of communicative range, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 11B shows aspects of charging an input device on a base device whenthe input device is out of communicative range, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a method of managing wireless chargingbetween a base device and an input device, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 13 shows a simplified diagram showing discovery and charging modesfor a base device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 14 shows a simplified diagram showing various charging modes for abase device, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 15 shows a simplified diagram showing charging and shutdown modesfor a base device, according to certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates in general to input devices, and inparticular to the wireless charging of input devices.

In the following description, various embodiments of methods and systemsfor wirelessly charging an input device will be described. For purposesof explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However,it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodimentsmay be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-knownfeatures may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure theembodiment being described.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a novel method ofwirelessly charging a host device (also referred to as an “inputdevice”) such as a computer mouse via a charging mat (“base device,”“base” or “base station”) that also functions as a mouse pad. The basedevice includes a coil to wirelessly and electromagnetically transferpower to a removable modular insert (also having a coil) disposed in theinput device. The base device can provide enough power to the inputdevice for continuous operation without the need of power from anauxiliary power source.

The modular insert can be coin shaped and configured to be inserted intoa cavity within a housing of the input device, although other shapes orpolygons are possible. In some embodiments, the modular insert can besecured to the input device via magnetic coupling. The magnets canprovide both a mechanical mating force and an electrical conduction pathto transfer the received power from the base device to the input device(see, e.g., FIG. 4 ). In some embodiments, the removable modular insertacts as a power receiver for the input device. The modular insert caninclude additional functionality such as RF capabilities that can beused to convert a corded mouse to a wireless mouse (see, e.g., FIG. 6 ),or other systems (e.g., processors, accelerometers, sensors, logic, LEDcontrol, etc.), to enhance the capabilities of the input device in amodular fashion. Some of these enhancements are discussed below withrespect to FIGS. 6-8 . Thus, certain embodiments described hereinprovide a novel modular wireless charging system that can provide myriadcustomizable functional capabilities in an input device with aconvenient and easily installable (and removable) and interchangeablemodule.

In some embodiments, the base device may continue to wireless emitelectromagnetic (EM) power for a threshold time period (e.g., 2 seconds)even when wireless communication between the base device and the inputdevice has been lost. This can be useful when a user is “skating” with acomputer mouse by frequently lifting and repositioning during use, whichcould momentarily break wireless communication between the computermouse and the base device. Typically, wireless charging systems maycease EM power emission when wireless communication is lost. Certainembodiments may maintain the EM power emission during the threshold timeperiod to see if the connection is reestablished, and further maintainthe EM power emission thereafter when reconnection is confirmed (e.g.,see FIGS. 11-14 ).

FIG. 1 shows a simplified diagram of a system 100 for wirelesslycharging an input device, according to certain embodiments. System 100may include a computing device 110 having a display 120 and a keyboard130. A charging base device 140 is coupled to computing device 110, andan input device 150 is resting on base device 140. Computing device 110can be a laptop computer, desktop computer, tablet computer, or othersuitable computing device. Charging base device 140 can rest on a worksurface (e.g., table, desk, etc.) and may be a computer mouse pad orother suitable device with a surface that input device 150 can rest onor move along. Input device 150 can be a computer mouse, remote control,presenter, or other suitable input device that can be configured to workin conjunction with base device 140. Although the embodiments describedherein discuss input devices that move along the surface of base device140, conventionally non-mobile devices can be charged by base device 140as well, including but not limited to smart phones, smart wearables, earbuds, or any input device configured for wireless charging, as furthershown and discussed below with respect to FIGS. 9A-9D. Although theaccompanying figures tend to show an input device resting on a basedevice, it should be understood that the various embodiments can chargethe input device (via EM power coupling) while the input device is inuse (in motion), which is one of the primary technical advantages of theinventive concepts described herein. Furthermore, “host device” and“input device” can be used interchangeably. The “host device” is sonamed because it “hosts” or receives a modular insert, as furtherdiscussed below.

Base device 140 can include one or more inductive coils and a powersupply to generate an EM field. The EM field can be received by inputdevice 150 via its own inductive coil and supporting circuitry (asfurther discussed below) thereby facilitating the wireless transfer ofpower from base device 140 to input device 150. Input device 150 maystore the received power in a local energy storage device (e.g.,battery), power internal circuitry (e.g., processor(s), communicationmodules, etc.), or a combination thereof. Base device 140 can receivepower from computing device 110 via cable 145. In some embodiments, basedevice 140 may receive power from other sources, including wall sockets,external energy storage devices (e.g., a battery block), or the like.Cable 145 can be of any suitable type (e.g., universal serial bus (USB),FireWire, etc.) and of any suitable length. In some cases, cable 145 maybe integrated with other cables (e.g., multi-purpose, multi-standardcable). In further embodiments, base device 140 may include an energystorage system (e.g., multiple internal batteries) to provide wirelesspower. Base device 140 can function as a computer mouse pad (as shown)and may of any suitable shape or size, and may utilize any number, size,or type of coils for EM emission. In some embodiments, base device 140may be in a shape other than a pad. For example, base device 140 may bea block or similar object that can emit EM power, where input devicescan receive EM power by being within a vicinity of the block (e.g.,within 4-5 inches). One of ordinary skill in the art would understandthe many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments thereof.In certain embodiments, system 100 may cause charging status icon 125 tobe displayed on display 120 when input device 150 is being charged.Alternatively or additionally, one or more LEDs may light on inputdevice 150 to indicate a charging level, charging state (e.g., chargingor not charging), or the like.

FIG. 2 shows an input device 200 having a cavity disposed therein toreceive a removable modular insert, according to certain embodiments.Input device 200 can be a computer mouse, remote control, a presenter,or other suitable input device. Input device 200 can include one or moreprocessors 210 (not shown), housing 220, button(s) 230, scroll wheel240, power cable 250 (e.g., USB cable), cavity 260, and removablemodular insert 270. Buttons 230, scroll wheel 240, or other conventionalfunctions (e.g., movement tracking, touch detection, etc.) of inputdevice 200 can be controlled by processor(s) 210. Power cable 250 can beany suitable cable (e.g., USB, FireWire, etc.) to electrically andcommunicatively couple input device 200 to a computing device (e.g.,laptop computer, desktop computer, etc.). Modular insert 270 may includean additional processor (not shown), or can be controlled byprocessor(s) 210. Modular insert 270 can further include one or moreinductive coils to electromagnetically receive power from a base device140, and a communication module to communicate with base device 140 tocontrol the EM coupling process between base device 140 and input device200 (shown as electromagnetic coupling lines 280). Input device 200 canfurther include a battery (not shown) to store EM power received frombase device 140.

Modular insert 270 can be secured in cavity 260 of input device 200 viamagnetic coupling (further discussed below), mechanical coupling (e.g.,via pins, screws, tabs), frictional coupling, or the like. Modularinsert 270 can be removed and reinserted in cavity 260, removed andinserted in a different input device, and the like. In some embodiments,base device 140 can include a communication device to enablecommunication between input device 200 and base device 140 (e.g., via aBluetooth®-based communication protocol), which may include controlsignals that are passed from input device 200 to base device 140 and onto a corresponding host computing device (e.g., computing device 110).

FIG. 3 shows a removable modular insert (“modular insert”) 300 for aninput device, according to certain embodiments of the invention. Modularinsert 300 can be any suitable shape including disc shaped (as shown),square, rectangular, etc. Modular insert 300 includes ferrite slugs 310,320, inductive coil contacts 330, 340 coupled to coil 390, processor350, communication block 360, power management block 370, and energystorage device 380 (e.g., battery). Modular insert 300 can be disposedinside cavity 260 and coupled to housing 220, for example, via magneticcoupling. For instance, ferrite slugs 310, 320 may magnetically andphysically couple to a pair of magnets disposed in cavity 260, as shownand described with respect to FIG. 4 . Ferrite slugs 310, 320 may bekeyed (i.e., offset) to ensure a particular orientation of modularinsert 300.

In some embodiments, inductive coil contacts 330, 340 can be coupled tocoil 390. Coil 390 can be used to wirelessly (i.e., electromagnetically)receive power from an inductive coil on a base device (e.g., base device140). FIG. 3 shows contacts 330, 340 to access coil 390, however someembodiments may not include accessible contacts and the operation ofcoil 390 may be controlled internally (e.g., by on-board processor 350).Coil 390 may be a discrete component (e.g., through-hole or surfacemount device) or an integrated device, as shown. Integrated coils may beany suitable size, shape, or location on modular insert 300 as requiredby design.

Processor 350 can include one or more microprocessors (μCs) and can beconfigured to control the operation of modular insert 300. In someimplementations, processor 350 can also control the operation of inputdevice 200. Alternatively, processor 350 may include one or moremicrocontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or the like,with supporting hardware and/or firmware (e.g., memory, programmableI/Os, etc.), as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in theart. Alternatively, MCUs, μCs, DSPs, and the like, may be configured inother system blocks of modular insert 300. For example, communicationblock 360 may include a local processor to control the variouscommunications described herein (e.g., modular insert-to-base device,input device, or computing device communication). In some embodiments,multiple processors may provide an increased performance in speed andbandwidth. It should be noted that although multiple processors mayimprove performance in modular insert 300, they are not required forstandard operation of the embodiments described herein. In someembodiments, processor 350 may work in conjunction with a processor onits corresponding input device (e.g., input device 200) or may whollycontrol the operation of input device 200, in addition to the functionslocal to modular insert 300.

Communication block 360 can be configured to provide wirelesscommunication between modular insert 300 and a host computer (e.g.,computing device 110), between modular insert 300 and a base device(e.g., base device 140), between modular insert 300 and thecorresponding input device (e.g., input device 200), or a combinationthereof, according to certain embodiments. Communications block 360 canbe configured to provide radio-frequency (RF), Bluetooth®, BluetoothLE®, infra-red, ZigBee®, or other suitable communication technology toenable wireless communication. Communication block 360 may optionallyinclude a hardwired connection for bi-directional electroniccommunication between modular insert 300 and input device 200. Modularinsert 300 may optionally comprise a hardwired connection to computingdevice 110. Some embodiments may utilize different types of cables orconnection protocol standards to establish hardwired communication withother entities.

Power management block 370 can be configured to manage powerdistribution, recharging of an energy storage device, power efficiency,and the like, for modular insert 300 and, in some cases, input device200. In some embodiments, power management system 370 can include anenergy storage device 380, power management devices (e.g., low-dropoutvoltage regulators—not shown), and a power grid within modular insert300 to provide power to each subsystem in modular insert 300 and/orinput device 200 (e.g., processor 350, communications block 360, etc.).In some cases, the functions provided by power management system 370 maybe incorporated in processor 360.

Energy storage device 380 can store power wirelessly received from thebase device. In some embodiments, an energy storage device (i.e.,battery) of an associated input device (e.g., input device 200) mayreplace or work in conjunction with energy storage device 380. Energystorage device 380 can be any suitable replaceable and/or rechargeableenergy storage device including a lithium polymer battery, NiMH, NiCd,or the like.

Although certain necessary systems may not be expressly discussed, theyshould be considered as part of modular insert 300, as would beunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, modularinsert 300 may include a bus system to transfer power and/or data to andfrom the different systems therein. In some embodiments, modular insert300 may include a memory subsystem (not shown). A memory subsystem canstore one or more software programs to be executed by processors (e.g.,processor 350). It should be understood that “software” can refer tosequences of instructions that, when executed by processing unit(s)(e.g., processors, processing devices, etc.), cause modular insert 300to perform certain operations of software programs. The instructions canbe stored as firmware residing in read only memory (ROM) and/orapplications stored in media storage that can be read into memory forprocessing by processing devices. Software can be implemented as asingle program or a collection of separate programs and can be stored innon-volatile storage and copied in whole or in-part to volatile workingmemory during program execution. From a storage subsystem, processingdevices can retrieve program instructions to execute in order to executevarious operations as described herein.

Coupling the Modular Insert to the Input Device

A removable modular insert can be coupled to an input device in a numberof ways, such as screws, fasteners, spring clips or other semi-permanentor temporary mechanical means. Certain embodiments of the inventionemploy a magnetic coupling scheme that combines electrical contacts withmechanical mating force in a simple assembly that self-aligns and snapsin place for a quick, simple, and robust coupling process.

FIG. 4 shows a removable modular insert 300 coupled to housing 440 ofinput device 200 via magnetic coupling, according to certainembodiments. Housing 440 can be contained within input device 200 (e.g.,in cavity 260). Modular insert 300 includes electrical contacts 412 and414, which can be coupled to the main body of modular insert 300.Modular insert 300 can be comprised of a non-conductive ferritematerial. Contacts 412, 414 can be comprised of any suitable magneticconductive material (e.g., iron) or thin conductive layer (e.g., flexPCB), and can be shaped, e.g., like a washer (i.e., thin and discshaped), or other suitable shape, to minimize the gap in the magneticcircuit to bring an electrical connection to the magnets. Housing 440can be part of input device 200, and in particular can be located incavity 260. Housing 440 can include electrical contacts 422 and 432coupled to housing 440, and magnets 420 and 430 coupled to contacts 422,432. Housing 440 can be comprised of a non-conductive ferrite material.The ferrite portions of modular insert 300 and housing 440 arenon-conductive such that the magnetic circuit is closed when bothassemblies are coupled together, thus having a strong mating force.Other materials can be used in housing 400 and/or modular insert 300,provided that electrical contacts 412, 414 and 422, 432 are insulated onat least one side. In some embodiments, an additional magnet or set ofmagnets can be included in modular insert 300 that can provide anorientation force for the coupling process (e.g., similar polarityopposes a mechanical/electrical connection, while opposing polaritiescauses a mechanical/electrical connection). Magnets can also be used tohelp align and mate other electrical connections (e.g., communicationblock 360, power management block 370, etc., as shown in FIG. 3 ).

Using magnets to magnetically and electrically couple modular insert 300to housing 400 (and input device 200) can provide several advantagesover semi-permanent installations using hardware (e.g., screws, pins,tabs, etc.), adhesive, or the like. For instance, magnetic coupling canprovide a strong and self-contained coupling force that avoids devicewarping, bending, or deformation in the housing or input device. Evensmall warping deformations of the housing can subtly alter performancecharacteristics of input device 200, particularly in input devices likegaming computer mice where users typically have very high and exactingexpectations in device performance, sensitivity, and precision. Someimplementations may utilize a hybrid approach with both magneticcoupling and some hardware based coupling scheme (e.g., clips, screws,tabs, etc.). The magnets may be hidden from view during normal operationand provide aesthetic as well as functional benefits. For instance,users may appreciate the immediate auto-orientation and “snap in”coupling process in embodiments that incorporate magnetic couplingschemes.

Magnets can have a very low electrical resistance and may not present asignificant voltage drop in their corresponding circuits. In oneexperiment, eight magnets were stacked with standard iron washers oneach end with electrical probes coupled thereto. With 1 A of current,the eight magnets had a 250 mV voltage drop. With 100 mA, the eightmagnets had a 33 mV voltage drop. The voltage drop (and thusresistivity) typically depends primarily on the number of interfaceswithin the circuit and contacts at the microscopic level, but remainslow making magnets at least suitable to carry low currents (e.g., 100 mAto 1 A). Many of the embodiments depicted herein include one or twomagnets, such that the electrical characteristics of eight stackedmagnets merely exemplify their excellent electrical characteristics,even in non-ideal configurations (i.e., many magnets). Heat dissipationfor the magnets can be negligible, even at currents around 1 A, suchthat heat is typically not a factor in the operation of the embodimentsanticipated and/or described herein.

Embodiment 1—Standard Mouse with Wireless Power Receiver

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of a system 500 for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments. In this example, inputdevice 560 is a wireless computer mouse that supports USB communicationand RF communication and embeds its own internal battery (not shown) andpower management system. System 500 includes a modular insert 530 (e.g.,coin shaped insert) that receives power from a corresponding base device(e.g., powered mouse pad). An internal battery (not shown) can becharged via wireless charging through electromagnetic power couplingprovided by modular insert 530 and received from base device 510, or viaa tethered USB port. Thus, system 500 can provide enough continuouspower such that the internal battery can always remain charged while inuse and the external hardwired USB charging is not required.

System 500 can include a base device 510, a modular insert 530 and aninput device 560. Base device 510 can include inductive coil 520,coupling control block 515, and communication block 525. Couplingcontrol block may include one or more processors. In some embodiments,base device 510 can be similar to base device 140 of FIGS. 1 and 2 .Inductive coil 520 may generate and couple electromagnetic power toinductive coil 540 of modular insert 530, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 andfurther discussed below. Communication block 525 may controlcommunication between base device 510 and modular insert 530 to control,for example, the electromagnetic power coupling process. Communicationdevice 525 can include antenna 527 and can use any suitablecommunication protocol including, but not limited to, radio-frequency(RF), Bluetooth®, Bluetooth LE®, infra-red, ZigBee®, or other suitablecommunication technology to enable wireless communication. Couplingcontrol block 515 can control electromagnetic power generation and theoperation of the inductive coil and communication block 525. Couplingcontrol block 515 may be any suitable type of processor, as discussedabove with respect to processor 350 of FIG. 3 .

Input device 560 can include processor(s) 570, roller control block 572,LED control block 574, button control block 576, sensor control block578, communication block 580, power coupling control block 590, andrechargeable battery 595. In some embodiments, input device 560 is acomputer mouse. Rechargeable battery 595 can be any suitable energybuffer (e.g., energy storage device, super cap, etc.). Processor 570 cancontrol the standard operational features of the computer mouseincluding roller 572 (e.g., scroll wheel), LED control block 574, buttoncontrol block 576, and sensors (e.g., touch sensors) 578, and the like.Communication control block 580 including antenna 585 can employ anysuitable communication protocol including, but not limited to,radio-frequency (RF), Bluetooth®, Bluetooth LE®, infra-red, ZigBee®, orother suitable communication technology to enable wireless communicationbetween input device 560 and an associated host computing device (e.g.,laptop computer, desktop computer, tablet computer, etc.). Couplingcontrol block 590 can control communication and powermanagement/transfer between modular insert 530 to input device 560, andmay include any suitable type of processor, as discussed above withrespect to processor 350 of FIG. 3 . USB port 565 can provide power toinput device 560 and/or control communication between input device 560and an associated host computing device.

Modular insert 530 can include a coupling control block 550, acommunication block 555 and an inductive coil 540. Coupling controlblock 550 may control power management and communication between basedevice 510 and modular insert 530 to control, for example, theelectromagnetic power coupling process (e.g., coupling control block maybe responsible for communication with base device 510 to indicate thatinput device 560 (and modular insert 530) is ready to receiveelectromagnetic power from base device 510. Communication device 525 caninclude antenna 557 and can use any suitable communication protocolincluding, but not limited to, radio-frequency (RF), Bluetooth®,Bluetooth LE®, infra-red, ZigBee®, or other suitable communicationtechnology to enable wireless communication. Coupling control block 550can control electromagnetic power generation and the operation of theinductive coil and communication block 525. Coupling control block 515may be any suitable type of processor, as discussed above with respectto processor 350 of FIG. 3 .

In some embodiments, coupling control block 515 can control EM poweremission based on a number of factors. In some cases, control couplingblock 515 may cause base device to always emit EM power. Couplingcontrol block 515 may control EM power emission based on whether aninput device is on (e.g., resting or moving) base device 510. Suchembodiments may include one or more pressure sensors, image sensors, orthe like, that can detect when input device 560 is contacting a surfaceof base device 510. In some cases, coupling control block 515 may ceaseEM emission when communication with modular insert 530 or input device560 is lost. Alternatively or additionally, coupling control block 515may continue EM emission for a period of timing (e.g., 2 seconds) toaccommodate for “skating” or similar use cases, as further discussedbelow with respect to FIGS. 11-15 . In certain embodiments, couplingcontrol block 515 may modulate an amount of EM emission based on anenergy state of an energy storage device on modular insert 530 and/orinput device 560. For instance, when the energy state is low, EMemission may be set to a maximum value. When the energy state isrelatively high, EM emission may be reduced or shut down for improvedpower efficiency. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand themany variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments thereof.

Embodiment 2—Corded to Wireless Mouse Conversion with Wireless PowerReceiver

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a system 600 for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments of the invention. System600 is similar to system 500, but more of the input device functions aremoved to the modular insert including RF communications, a storagedevice (embedded battery), and power management. System 600 includes atethered (corded) mouse with no embedded battery and a basic powermanagement scheme. System 600 can be used to transform a corded mouseinto a wireless mouse with wireless charging capabilities.

Embodiment 3—Using BLE on Modular Insert for Conventional MouseFunctions

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of a system 700 for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments of the invention. System700 includes base device 710 and input device 760 (including a modularinsert) and may include similar functions as systems 500 and 600.BLE-based communication systems 755 and 725 are typically used tocommunicate between pad and device. System 700 uses a local processorfor pad/device handshaking, as well as other functions like roller,button, X-Y motion/detection, LED control, MEMS, accelerometers,gyroscopes, optical sensors, and the like, and could transmit specificreports with the highest priority (e.g., BLE can generate about 90rep/s), which is sufficient for typical desktop mice. Base device 710may receive power from a host computing device (not shown) via USB. Thepower received from the host via USB can be used to power coil 720 toenable wireless power coupling between base device 710 and input device760. Some advantages of such system configurations include thefollowing: (1) having one RF link between input device and base device(mouse pad) can reduce the risk of RF jam; (2) the receiver function forbase device 710 can remain close to the emitter function (input device),thus optimizing RF link robustness; and (3) in some embodiments, inputdevice 760 does not require a receiver dongle, and a local battery usedas a buffer can be significantly reduced or replaced by a capacitor(e.g., super cap), which can advantageously reduce the overall weight ofthe input device.

Embodiment 4—Proprietary Communication Protocol to Carry Both InputDevice Reports and Input Device/Base Device Handshaking

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of a system 800 for wirelessly charging aninput device, according to certain embodiments of the invention. System800 is similar to system 700 except that the wireless communicationbetween input device 860 and a corresponding computing device (notshown), and the handshaking between the modular insert and base devicecan be performed by a different communication protocol (e.g.,proprietary Logitech® wireless communication protocol) with a highreporting rate which can also reduce report latency and jitter ascompared to BLE.

Many of the embodiments described herein are directed to the wirelesscharging of a computer mouse on a powered base device, as depicted anddescribed above with respect to FIGS. 1-8 . However, embodiments of theclaimed invention are not limited to such implementations.

FIG. 9A shows a simplified diagram of a system for wirelessly charging aspeaker, according to certain embodiments. System 900 includes hostdevice 920, base device 910, and modular insert 925. In someembodiments, host device 920 can be a speaker and base device 910 can bea charging pad that the speaker rests on. Modular insert 925 can bedisposed inside host device 920 or connected externally (e.g., attachedto the bottom of speaker 910 and coupled through an I/O port). When hostdevice 920 is placed on or near base device 910, modular insert 930 cancommunicatively couple to base device 910 via any suitable wirelesscommunication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth®, BLE, etc.). Furthermore, whenhost device 920 is placed on or near base device 910, host device 920can begin charging, similar to the embodiments discussed above withrespect to FIGS. 1-8 . In some implementations, if host device 920(speaker) is already wirelessly connected to another device (e.g., amobile smart phone), host device 920 can switch its wireless connectionfrom the other device to base device 920 when, e.g., modular insert 930determines that it is within a certain proximity to base device 920.Base device 920 may have a wired connection to a computer, or a wirelessconnection to a network (e.g., the “cloud”). Other host devices can becharged by base device 910 including, but not limited to, smart phones(e.g., see FIG. 9B with phone 930 and modular insert 935), smart watches(e.g., see FIG. 9C with watch 950 and modular insert 955), gamecontrollers, remote controls, microphones, wireless ear buds (e.g., seeFIG. 9C with ear buds 940), and the like.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a method 1000 of configuring an inputdevice for wireless charging, according to certain embodiments. Method1000 can be performed by processing logic that may comprise hardware(circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on appropriatehardware (such as a general purpose computing system or a dedicatedmachine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. Incertain embodiments, method 1000 can be performed by processor 570 ofsystem 500, as shown and described above with respect to FIG. 5 .

At step 1010, method 1000 can include receiving a removable modularinsert 530 in a cavity of input device 560, according to certainembodiments. Modular insert 530 can be inserted and held in positionmagnetically, mechanically (e.g., via hardware), by friction, or thelike, as further discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2 and 4 . Wheninserted, modular insert 530 can be electrically coupled to input device560, as shown in FIG. 5 (e.g., coupling control blocks (e.g.,processors) 550 and 590 are electrically coupled together). Onceelectrically connected, EM power received via coil 540 is used to powerone or more modules of input device 560. For instance, EM power receivedby coil 540 can be used to power some or all blocks 572, 574, 576, 578,580, and 590.

At step 1020, method 1000 can include input device 560 establishingcommunication with modular insert 530, according to certain embodiments.Communication can be made via hardwired connection (e.g., via wires,hardware, magnets, as described above with respect to FIG. 4 , or thelike), or via any suitable wireless communication protocol (e.g., BLE).Communication between input device 560 and modular insert 530 may allowinput device 560 and modular insert 530 to share resources and allowcoupling control block (e.g., processor) 590 to control modular insert530 (e.g., route received EM power, turn on/off functions of modularinsert 530, etc.), or the like (step 1030).

At step 1040, method 1000 can include establishing and controllingelectromagnetic power coupling between the conductive coil and a basedevice when the host device (e.g., input device) is placed in closeproximity to the base device, according to certain embodiments. In somecases, EM power coupling may occur when the host device is close enoughto maintain a communicative connection with the base device (e.g., BLE)to indicate to the base device that the host device is available toreceive EM power.

It should be appreciated that the specific steps illustrated in FIG. 10provide a particular method 1000 for establishing a wireless connectionwith a mobile input device, according to certain embodiments. Othersequences of steps may also be performed according to alternativeembodiments. For example, alternative embodiments may perform the stepsoutlined above in a different order. Moreover, the individual stepsillustrated in FIG. 10 may include multiple sub-steps that may beperformed in various sequences as appropriate to the individual step.Furthermore, additional steps may be added or removed depending on theparticular applications. One of ordinary skill in the art wouldrecognize and appreciate many variations, modifications, andalternatives of method 1000.

Efficient EM Power Emission

Many of the embodiments discussed herein are directed to the wirelesstransfer of electromagnetic power from a base device (e.g., poweredmouse pad) to an input device (e.g., computer mouse). Unlike manywireless charging systems (e.g., smart phone or ear bud dockingstations), a user's hand may remain on the charging base device forextended periods of time. In an effort to limit unnecessary exposure toEM radiation, some embodiments may be configured cease or reduce EMemissions when a battery on the input device is determined to besufficiently charged (e.g., 90% charged). In such cases, the inputdevice and/or modular insert may communicate its current charge state tothe base device). Some embodiments may avoid EM emission unless an inputdevice is on the base device. For example, some implementations mayemploy sensors to detect whether a user is using the input device viapressure sensors and/or image sensors to detect a user's hand and, inthe instance where the user is not currently using the input device(e.g., no input device on base device), some embodiments may cease EMemissions.

In certain embodiments, some systems (e.g., system 500) may cause a basedevice to emit EM power when communication between the base device andinput device and/or modular insert is established. When communication islost, base device may cease EM power emission. This can help improvepower efficiency, as the base device may only emit EM power when theinput device is known to be within range to receive the EM power.However, communication may be unintentionally lost during normaloperation of an input device (e.g., computer mouse) when the userrepeatedly moves the input device to the edge of the base device (e.g.,powered mouse pad), lifts the input device, and repositions the inputdevice toward the center of the base device, in an action known as“skating.” In some embodiments, communication range may be very short(e.g., for low power and efficiency) such that far corners of the basedevice or locations above the base device beyond a certain distance(e.g., 1 inch, 2 cm, etc.) may not have within range, causingcommunication to be momentarily lost. When the input device repeatedlyloses and reestablishes a communicative connection, it may take time forEM power coupling to be reestablished, which can detrimentally affectcharging efficiency. The embodiments described below with respect toFIGS. 11A-15 illustrate aspects of maintaining EM power emission duringbrief periods of no communicative connectivity (e.g., 2 seconds) toaccommodate “skating” and other actions that may affect continuous EMpower emission.

FIG. 11A shows aspects of charging input device 1160 on base device 1110when input device 1160 is out of communicative range, according tocertain embodiments. FIG. 11A includes base device 1110, a power cable1120, an inductive coil and antenna module 1130, and input device 1160.Inductive coil and antenna module 1130 is shown as a single modularunit, however some embodiments may have separate packaging or multipleinstances (e.g., multiple coils and/or antennas disposed within basedevice 1110 at different locations). In some embodiments, acommunicative range for base device 1110 may not have communicativerange to its surface edges, as represented by range 1140. Similarly,range may not extend far above base device 1110 (e.g., 1 inch), as shownby range 1150 of FIG. 11B. Input device 1160 is shown to be “skating”from point A to B, where a user repeatedly moves input device 1160 tothe edge and repositions on base device 1110, as described above. Atposition B, input device 1160 may be out of communicative range. Insteadof ceasing EM power emission by base device 1110, it may wait for abrief period of time (e.g., 2 seconds) to see if the input devicereestablishes communication, as further discussed below.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a method 1200 of managing wirelesscharging between a base device and an input device, according to certainembodiments. Method 1200 can be performed by processing logic that maycomprise hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operatingon appropriate hardware (such as a general purpose computing system or adedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combinationthereof. In certain embodiments, method 1200 can be performed byprocessor 515 of system 500, as shown and described above with respectto FIG. 5 .

At step 1210, method 1200 can include wirelessly emitting, by the basedevice to the input device, one or more discontinuous bursts of EM powerto wake a communications circuit in the input device and cause the inputdevice to establish a wireless communication connection with the basedevice prior to the base device emitting the continuous burst of EMpower, according to certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13 . Thediscontinuous burst may be emitted with any suitable pulse width,frequency, or amplitude, as would be understood by one of ordinary skillin the art. The pre-communication discontinuous EM bursts can helpimprove power efficiency by generally only emitting continuous EM bursts(e.g., as shown in FIG. 14 ) when an input device is detected and incommunication with the corresponding base device. As indicated above,the discontinuous burst from the base device can cause the input deviceand/or modular insert to power up and establish communication with thebase device. Communication can be established using any suitablecommunication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth®, BLE, ZigBee, etc.), andpreferably a low power, short range variety.

At step 1220, method 1200 can include establishing, by a base devicewith the input device (or vice versa), a wireless communicationconnection for bi-directional wireless communication between the basedevice and the input device, according to certain embodiments. Thewireless communication connection allows the input device (and/ormodular insert) to communication with the base device to indicate thatit is present and available to wirelessly receive EM power, as discussedabove. In some cases, the range of the wireless communication connection(e.g., Bluetooth® variety) may be very short range and limited to anarea at or near a surface of the base device, which can help powerefficiency—it may be advantageous for the base device to emit EM powerwhen the input device is known to be on or near the surface of the basedevice.

Although the embodiments described herein generally have separatecircuits to handle EM power emission and wireless communication, someembodiments may combine them. For instance, EM power emission can beencoded via amplitude, frequency, and/or pulse-width modulation tocommunicate from base device to input device and/or modular insert. Oneof ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure wouldunderstand the many variations, modifications, and alternativeembodiments thereof.

At step 1230, method 1200 can include wirelessly emitting, by the basedevice, a continuous burst of electromagnetic (EM) power to charge theinput device while the input device is on or near a surface of the basedevice. In some cases, the EM power emission may be any suitablestrength, which can be adjusted based on the power supply. For example,base device may be powered by a host computer via a USB or FireWirecable. Such cables may have certain operational constraints (e.g., powerlimitations) that may be a factor in determining how much EM power thebase device can emit. In some embodiments, operational constraints maynot present limitations and the base device can emit EM power at anystrength and at any range as needed. For instance, the base device maybe powered by a wall outlet. Thus, the EM power range may be relativelyshort (e.g., within a portion of the surface of the base device—wherenormal movement of a mouse would be during use) or relatively long(e.g., within 1 foot of the surface of the base device—however, suchembodiments may have lower power efficiency). One example of continuousEM power emission is shown in FIG. 14 .

At step 1240, method 1200 can include determining, by the base device,that the wireless communication connection with the input device hasbeen disconnected, according to certain embodiments. For example, when auser is “skating” the input device, as discussed above, the wirelesscommunicative connection may be momentarily lost. Wireless communicationcan be lost due to many factors, in addition to “skating,” such aslifting the input device, a momentary drop in communication due to EMinterference, or any other cause of disconnection, as would beunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Determining adisconnection can simply be the lack of a communicative channel beingpresent or some other indication (e.g., another module determines thedisconnection and informs the base device).

At step 1250, method 1200 can include waiting for a threshold timeperiod after determining that the wireless communication connection hasbeen disconnected, according to certain embodiments. The threshold timemay be any suitable period of time that would include the time it wouldtake for an input device in use to lose and subsequently reestablishwireless communication with the base station. For example, a user maylose wireless communication when performing a “skating” motion with acomputer mouse on the base device. In some cases, the threshold time maybe approximately 2 seconds. Shorter or longer times may be used, aswould be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

At step 1260, method 1200 can include maintaining the continuous burstof EM power during the threshold time period. During the threshold time,it may not be known whether the user is still using the input device andthe input device may have momentarily lost its wireless communicativeconnection with the base device, or if the user has removed the inputdevice (or the input device is powered off). Thus, the continuous burstof EM power is maintained until after the threshold time to make thatdetermination.

At step 1270, method 1200 can include determining, by the base device,whether wireless communication has been reestablished between the basedevice and input device, according to certain embodiments. If thewireless connection is reestablished within the threshold time period(e.g., 2 seconds), then the base device maintains the continuous burstof EM power after the threshold time period (step 1290). This may occurwhen the base device receives an indication that the wirelesscommunication connection with the input device has been reestablishedduring the threshold time period (e.g., this is shown in FIG. 14 ). Ifthe wireless connection between the input device and the base device isnot reestablished within the threshold period of time, then the basedevice ceases emission of the continuous burst of EM power. This mayoccur when the base device does not receive an indication that thewireless communication connection has been reestablished by the end ofthe threshold time period (e.g., as shown in FIG. 15 ). In such cases,base device may then begin to emit discontinuous bursts of EM power(step 1210) or power down. One of ordinary skill in the art with thebenefit of this disclosure would understand the many variations,modifications, and alternative embodiments thereof.

It should be appreciated that the specific steps illustrated in FIG. 12provide a particular method 1200 for managing wireless charging betweena base device and an input device, according to certain embodiments.Other sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternativeembodiments. For example, alternative embodiments may perform the stepsoutlined above in a different order. Moreover, the individual stepsillustrated in FIG. 12 may include multiple sub-steps that may beperformed in various sequences as appropriate to the individual step.Furthermore, additional steps may be added or removed depending on theparticular applications. For example, method 1200 can further includedetecting, by the base device, a charge level of an energy storagedevice on the input device and modulating an amount of the continuousburst of EM power based on the charge level of the energy storagedevice. In some cases, modulating the amount of the continuous burst ofEM power may include reducing or ceasing the emission of the continuousburst of EM power when the energy storage device is detected to be at orabove charge threshold. One of ordinary skill in the art with thebenefit of this disclosure would recognize and appreciate manyvariations, modifications, and alternatives of method 1200.

FIG. 13 shows a simplified graph 1300 showing discovery and chargingmodes for a base device, according to certain embodiments. Before thebase device makes a communicative connection with the input device, thebase device may send periodic bursts of EM power, which may causecommunication circuitry (or comparable feature) to power on and/orestablish a wireless communicative connection with the base station. Thewireless connection can be an indication that the input device is localto the base station and ready to receive EM power.

Graph 1300 is presented as a voltage vs. time relationship and includesa series of discontinuous EM bursts (1310-1316) followed by a continuousEM burst over range 1330 generated by a base device. The periodic burstscan be any amplitude (e.g., 1-3 V peak-to-peak), frequency (e.g., 1burst per second), or periodicity (e.g., regular intervals, irregularintervals), etc. The discontinuous burst period (e.g., including EMbursts 1310, 1312, 1314, 1316) may correspond to steps 1210 to 1220 ofmethod 1200, according to certain embodiments. Shortly after the 4second mark, the base device may receive an indication that a wirelessconnection with the input device has been established and begins to emita continuous EM pulse over range 1330, as discussed above with respectto step 1230 of method 1200. As indicated above, different amounts of EMpower can be emitted and discontinuous and continuous voltage and/orpower levels do not need to be equal, as shown. For example,discontinuous EM bursts may be substantially lower in instantaneouspower than the continuous EM pulses, as would be understood by one ofordinary skill in the art. The variation in discontinuous and continuouspulses described above can apply to all other embodiments explicitlyand/or inherent discussed herein. It should also be noted that althoughgraphs 1300-1500 show a particular 7-8 second interval, it is meant toprovide one example of how EM power emission may operate in certainembodiments, and those of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit ofthis disclosure would understand that different power levels, voltagelevels, frequencies, threshold time periods, EM burst characteristics,etc., are possible.

FIG. 14 shows a simplified diagram showing various charging modes for abase device, according to certain embodiments. After the base stationdetermines that the wireless communication with the input device hasbeen disconnected, the base device may wait for a short period of timeto see if the connection is reestablished. This may be useful when auser moves an input device along a surface of the base device in a waythat routinely causes a momentarily loss of wireless communicativeconnectivity, due to “skating” or other cause (e.g., EM interferencefrom outside sources, power fluctuations in the base device or inputdevice, or any suitable cause of momentary disconnection). In suchinstances, it can be more efficient to maintain EM power emission sothat the input device does not stop charging when the communicativeconnection is lost. Otherwise, frequent fluctuations in EM poweremission may cause the input device to charge more slowly, reduceoverall power transfer efficiency, and may cause both the input deviceand base device to expend more power in the process.

Graph 1400 is presented as a voltage vs. time relationship and includesa first continuous EM burst 1410 over the first 2.2 seconds, which thenreduces in amplitude from about 2.2 seconds to about 3.3 seconds,followed by a second continuous EM burst 1430 that remains through tothe 7 second point and beyond. The reduction in amplitude for the firstcontinuous EM burst 1410 occurs at the beginning of the 2 secondinterval 1420 where the base device determines that the communicativeconnection with the input device has been dropped. Although the powerappears to reduce during the period where the wireless connection hasbeen dropped, some embodiments may not reduce EM power emission, or mayincrease power emission. Before the end of the threshold time period(e.g., 2 seconds), the wireless communicative connection isreestablished and the continuous EM burst 1430 is maintained. Althoughthe continuous bursts are described and depicted as two (or three)separate bursts, it should be understood that the EM burst is continuousfrom 0-7 seconds (or any range) and does not include any discontinuousportions there between. Graph 1400 can correspond to steps 1240-1270 and1290 of method 1200 (e.g., see FIG. 12 ).

FIG. 15 shows a simplified diagram showing charging and shutdown modesfor a base device, according to certain embodiments. As indicated above,after the base station determines that the wireless communication withthe input device has been disconnected, the base device may wait for ashort period of time to see if the connection is reestablished.

Graph 1500 is presented as a voltage vs. time relationship and includesa first continuous EM burst 1510 over the first 2.4 seconds, which thenreduces in amplitude from about 2.4 seconds to about 5.4 seconds,followed by a series of discontinuous EM bursts 1530, 1540, 1550, 1560at interval t (1532), similar to the discontinuous EM pulses of FIG. 13. The reduction in amplitude for the first continuous EM burst 1510occurs at the beginning of the 2 second threshold timer period where thebase device determines that the communicative connection with the inputdevice has been dropped. Although the power appears to reduce during theperiod where the wireless connection has been dropped, some embodimentsmay not reduce EM power emission, or may increase power emission. Duringthe threshold time period (e.g., 2 seconds), the wireless communicativeconnection has not been reestablished and the continuous EM burstchanges back to discontinuous EM bursts 1530-1560, similar todiscontinuous EM bursts 1310-1316 of FIG. 14 . Under these conditions,it is assumed that the input device is no longer within range (or isshut off), and the base device reverts back to discovery mode. Graph1500 can correspond to steps 1240-1280 and 1210 of method 1200 (e.g.,see FIG. 12 ).

Many of the embodiments described herein include the control of EM poweremission by the base device based on the presence of a wirelesscommunicative connection (e.g., BLE) between the base device and theinput device. As indicated above, the input device can be referred to asa “host” device because it can “host” or house a modular insert (see,e.g., FIGS. 2-3 ). When the BLE connection is present, then the basedevice emits EM power from its corresponding coil(s). When the BLEconnection is lost, the base device continues to emit EM power for athreshold period of time. If, during that time, the input devicereestablishes the BLE connection, then EM power emission continues. Ifthe input device fails to reestablish the BLE connection by the end ofthe threshold period of time, then EM power emission may cease.

In certain embodiments, control of EM power emission can be dependent onwhether the input device is receiving (e.g., via its coil(s)) EM powerfrom the base device. For example, when input device 560 (e.g., withmodular insert 530) receives EM power from base device 510, a processor(e.g., one or both of processors 550, 590) can generate a signal ormessage indicating that EM power is being received, which can then besent to base device 510 via the communicative connection (e.g., BLE—viaantenna 557 or 585). Base device 510 can then maintain EM poweremission. When input device 560 (and modular insert 530) loses EM powercoupling (e.g., due to skating or moving the mouse outside the EM rangeof coil 520—on and/or above the surface of base device 510), a processorcan generate a signal or message indicating that EM coupling is lost,which can then be sent to base device 510. Base device 510 can continueto emit EM power for a threshold period of time (e.g., 2 seconds). If,during that time, the input device reports that EM power coupling isrestored (e.g., the input device is receiving EM power again), then basedevice continues to emit EM power as before. If the input device failsto reestablish EM power coupling, then a signal or message is sent tothe base device indicating that EM power coupling has not returned(within the threshold period of time), and EM power emission by basedevice 510 may cease. One of ordinary skill in the art would understandthe many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments thereof.

The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in anillustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, beevident that various modifications and changes may be made thereuntowithout departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure asset forth in the claims.

Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus,while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modificationsand alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereofare shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. Itshould be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit thedisclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary,the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructionsand equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure,as defined in the appended claims.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in thecontext of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both thesingular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearlycontradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,”and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning“including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term“connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within,attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening.The phrase “based on” should be understood to be open-ended, and notlimiting in any way, and is intended to be interpreted or otherwise readas “based at least in part on,” where appropriate. Recitation of rangesof values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method ofreferring individually to each separate value falling within the range,unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value isincorporated into the specification as if it were individually recitedherein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitableorder unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearlycontradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplarylanguage (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to betterilluminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitationon the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language inthe specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimedelement as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

All references, including publications, patent applications, andpatents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the sameextent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicatedto be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entiretyherein.

1-18. (canceled)
 19. A system comprising: a computer mouse including: ahousing defining a cavity; and an energy storage device operable tostore electrical power; and a modular insert including: a receiving coiloperable to wirelessly receive power; a wireless transceiver configuredto be powered by the wirelessly received power of the receiving coil andcontrol electromagnetic power coupling between the modular insert and anexternal source of the wirelessly received power, wherein the computermouse is configured to non-destructively mechanically and electricallycouple and decouple with the modular insert at the cavity, wherein thecomputer mouse operates on the wirelessly received power when themodular insert is coupled to the computer mouse, and wherein thecomputer mouse operates on power received from the energy storage devicewhen the modular insert is not coupled to the computer mouse.
 20. Thesystem of claim 19, wherein the energy storage device of the computermouse is a rechargeable battery.
 21. The system of claim 20, wherein theenergy storage device of the computer mouse is operable to be rechargedvia the wirelessly received power received via the modular insert. 22.The system of claim 20, wherein the rechargeable battery is comprised ofa nickel-cadmium, a nickel-metal hydride, or a lithium ion.
 23. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the modular insert includes a second energystorage device configured to store the wirelessly received power. 24.The system of claim 23, wherein the second energy storage device is asupercapacitor.
 25. The system of claim 19, wherein the computer mouseincludes one or more processors operable to control the computer mouseincluding operation of the energy storage device.
 26. The system ofclaim 25, wherein the modular insert includes a second one or moreprocessors operable to control the modular insert including controllinga flow of the wirelessly received power from the external source. 27.The system of claim 26, wherein the modular insert includes a secondenergy storage device configured to store the wirelessly received power,and wherein the second one or more processors are further operable tocontrol the modular insert including operation of the second energystorage device.
 28. A method of operating a computer mouse comprising:receiving a modular insert within a cavity of the computer mouse, thecavity configured to receive the modular insert in an orientation suchthat a receiving coil of the modular insert aligns with a transmittingcoil for wireless power transfer from a base device when the computermouse is operating on the base device, wherein the modular insertincludes a wireless transceiver operable to be powered via wirelesslyreceived power from the base device by the receiving coil and transmitdata corresponding to a position of the computer mouse relative to thebase device; operating the computer mouse via power received by anon-board energy storage device configured within the computer mouse whenthe computer mouse is not operating on the base device; and operatingthe computer mouse via power received by the wirelessly received powerwhen the computer mouse is moving along a surface of the base device.29. The method of claim 28, wherein the energy storage device of thecomputer mouse is a rechargeable battery.
 30. The method of claim 29,wherein the energy storage device of the computer mouse is operable tobe recharged via the wirelessly received power received via the modularinsert.
 31. The method of claim 29, wherein the rechargeable battery iscomprised of a nickel-cadmium, a nickel-metal hydride, or a lithium ion.32. The method of claim 28, wherein the modular insert includes a secondenergy storage device configured to store the wirelessly received power.33. The method of claim 32, wherein the second energy storage device isa supercapacitor.
 34. The method of claim 28, wherein the computer mouseincludes one or more processors operable to control the computer mouseincluding operation of the energy storage device.
 35. The method ofclaim 34, wherein the modular insert includes a second one or moreprocessors operable to control the modular insert including controllinga flow of the wirelessly received power from the base device.
 36. Themethod of claim 35, wherein the modular insert includes a second energystorage device configured to store the wirelessly received power, andwherein the second one or more processors are further operable tocontrol the modular insert including operation of the second energystorage device.
 37. A modular insert comprising: a receiving coiloperable to wirelessly receive power; and a wireless transceiverconfigured to be powered by the wirelessly received power of thereceiving coil and control electromagnetic power coupling between themodular insert and a base device providing the wirelessly receivedpower, wherein the modular insert is configured to non-destructivelymechanically and electrically couple and decouple with a computer mouse,wherein the modular insert provides the wirelessly received power to thecomputer mouse when the modular insert is coupled to the computer mouseand when the computer mouse is moving along a surface of the basedevice.
 38. The modular insert of claim 37 further comprising an energystorage device configured to store the wirelessly received power andprovide stored power to operate the computer mouse.